What Happens to Your People at 2 AM? This VP Built a System So No One Falls Through the Cracks

Hart & Hustle Podcast · Apr 15, 2026 · 39m

Chris Thomas, VP for Student Affairs at West Texas A&M University, shares how he built a culture of mentorship, belonging, and authentic leadership — sustaining 26 years of mission-driven service without burning out.In this conversation, you'll learn:✅ How the internal vs. external locus of control framework develops accountable, resilient teams✅ Why authentic leadership — not programs or policies — is the real retention lever✅ How to build layered after-hours support systems so no one falls through the cracksThis episode is for People Ops leaders, HR directors, and mission-driven executives…